The climatic diversity of the Pacific Northwest, specifically, the Illinois Valley of Southern Oregon, has been known to be well suited for growing for over 200 years. The abundance of rich, fertile soils, 300+ days of sunlight, the moisture laden clouds rolling off the Pacific Ocean bringing farmers 75+ inches of rainfall add up. The indigenous people were the educators for the future valley settlers who have been living a successful, sustainable existence living off the land growing crops.
Our farm is nestled among mature Madron, Oak and majestic tall evergreens at a sun-drenched elevation of 1420 feet.
In our fifth year, Ohana Canna has become known for its classic landrace strains; Acapulco Gold, Colombian Gold, Red Congolese as well as the popular strains of the day GMO Cookie, Wedding Cake, Night Nurse to name a couple.
During our Fall harvest Soiree we gather family, friends and locals together to celebrate the years harvest and to give thanks for everyone's sustained hard work.
One of the most revered events at our soiree is determining which 'improved strain' varietals to run next season. We let everyone have their say by secret ballot. They are selecting the strain they predict will win the next year's 'Family Flower of the Year Award.'
Landrace strains have consistency and a relatively high level of genetic variation making a landrace strain advantageous in this valley over many of the genetically 'improved varieties.'
Yields typically will not be as high but the stability of landraces strains, in face of the formidable growing conditions found here in the 'Illinois Valley' is the price of entry.
Knowing this allows farmers to take calculated risks and even focus attention on their more 'high maintenance' strains which they might be growing as a 'pricing hedge' just one tent over:)
Credits:
HB Surf Photos, Surf-Connection